Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue District
&
Veterans of Foreign Wars Team
for
Democracy

The word “democracy” has a special meaning for all of us who take part in “Government by the People”, and this year, Pinellas Suncoast Fire & Rescue District is partnering with the Veterans of Foreign Wars to kick off their annual contest for democracy.

Steve Surface & Chief Leahy

Each year, the VFW sponsors a contest for both in home and public school 9^th and 10^th graders, providing them an opportunity to earn money, trips, awards and scholarships up to $25,000.  VFW Commander, Steve Surface, announced the 56^th annual audio essay competition. 

Interested students need only write and record a three to five minute audio/essay expressing their view of the patriotic theme “Freedom’s Obligation”.  Commander Surface noted that “young people who participate in the competition, benefit by gaining a better understanding of their country, freedom and obligation to America .”  The deadline to submit your audio essay is November 1, 2002 .

All state winners receive at least $1,000, and the national scholarship winner could realize the $25,000 first place award.  A total of $141,500 in National Scholarships is awarded to student finalists nationwide.

For more information, please contact Ken Thie, District 9 Junior Vice-Commander at 727-595-6132.